Trump Predicts 'Fairly Soon' Deal with Canada Amid Ongoing Trade War

US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about resolving a trade war with Canada on Saturday. He said that a deal could come 'fairly soon', but provided no details into whether formal talks between the two economies had resumed.

In a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin in Dublin, Trump sidestepped questions about his intentions regarding the US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement. Instead, he stated that Canada wants to reach a deal with Washington and that he is seeking better terms for US farmers.

Trump argued that Canada has been charging US farmers '400% tariffs' and other unfair practices. He claimed that when these issues are resolved, Canada will be willing to get rid of the trade restrictions. The US and Canada have been locked in a clash over tariffs and other economic disputes, threatening to rupture cross-border supply chains relied on by key industries like auto manufacturing.

The trade war has high stakes for Trump, whose Republican Party faces an uphill climb to retain control of Congress into November's midterm elections. His popularity is at record lows with voters unhappy over his handling of the economy and Iran war.